Concerned about your stroke risk? Try this super fruit

Most of our Houston and Denver clients have concerns about the aging process, whether they've noticed they aren't as sharp as they used to be, or find it increasingly difficult to will themselves off the couch. But, while these common complaints are undoubtedly frustrating – and can certainly affect a person's quality of life – their lives could be considerably more constricted if they developed a serious condition or suffered a stroke.

Nearly 800,000 people of all ages have a stroke each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the results can be transformative. If you are worried that you could be at risk – particularly if you have heart disease or diabetes – then consider adding more of a certain fruit to your diet: Montmorency tart cherries.

A new study from the University of Michigan has revealed that these berries may perform similar cardioprotective functions to the medications used to treat metabolic syndrome – often a precursor to heart problems. In addition, the cherries could achieve these results without increasing stroke risk – an unfortunate side effect of the drugs. The research was covered by ScienceDaily, and showed that "stroke-prone" rats that ate these cherries reduced their risk noticeably. Plus, animals that were given the cherries and medication together also benefited.

Further research is necessary to determine how this interaction takes place, and whether these fruits – or the antioxidants they contain – should be recommended to people who are more likely to suffer a stroke. However, it is always beneficial to add more nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables to your diet, so consider scouting out this produce the next time you go grocery shopping.

Want to learn more about how your dietary choices affect your overall aging longevity? Stop by our clinics in Denver or Houston to schedule a consultation, and keep following this blog for the latest developments.